So you’re thinking of buying a maid service franchise. Sounds simple—or so you think.
Keep in mind that not all franchises are created equal. Some offer prospective business owners lots of assistance in starting up and running his or her franchise. Others? Well, not so much.
The Sales Pitch
It all starts with the sales pitch, and the nagging question in the back of your mind about whether you can truly trust the sales person giving the pitch. After all, he or she is exactly that—a sales person. They give the pitch to make the sale, and they pad their pockets by doing so.
The only way to trust the sales pitch and the sales person is to buy your maid service franchise from a reputable source. You want to buy from a tried and true franchise that has proven success in the maid service franchise industry. Simply buying into a reputable cleaning company isn’t enough. You must know that your prospective franchise is equipped to handle all facets of your new business.
A common mistake in buying a maid service franchise is falling for the wrong sales pitch.
The Process
When looking to buy a maid service franchise, it’s important to do your homework and know the process through which you will make your purchase.
Ask how much money is needed to buy into the franchise, and how much it will cost per month to run your business through them.
Learn how much bang you are getting for your buck when buying your maid service franchise. Is the franchise simply providing you a logo and a company name—or are they standing behind you as you build your business with innovative ideas, skilled marketing, and comprehensive hiring and training programs for your employees?
If the bang for your buck seems to be missing, it probably is. Don’t make the mistake of buying what you perceive is a big name, without ensuring the process that runs it is sound.
Reputation
The company from which you are buying your maid service franchise no doubt has a reputation—but you must ensure it’s the best reputation possible.
Contact other owners within the company and find out if they are happy with what the franchise provides them. Are they available when legal questions arise? Are their insurance plans comprehensive for both you and your employees?
If you were a client, would you feel confident hiring a maid service from that franchise to come into your own home?
Cheaper Isn’t Always Better
- You know the old adage—you get what you pay for. Sure, there are likely cheaper franchise options to select from, but cheaper isn’t always better.
- Do ample research and make sure what you’re paying for is exactly what your business needs.
- Keep in mind that an accountant isn’t a CPA. An intern isn’t a lawyer. Find out exactly who will be handling problems for your maid service franchise if and when they arise.
- Don’t make the mistake of not asking enough questions. And be sure to get everything you’ve asked for—and they have accepted–in writing. Do this well before you sign on that dotted line.
Mission Statement and Vision
Make sure to learn up front what is the mission statement and vision of the company through which you plan to buy your maid service franchise. If you believe strongly in running an environmentally friendly cleaning service, but the franchise promotes harsh chemical products, it’s plain to see you won’t be a good fit.
A company’s mission statement and vision should be clearly defined on their website, and on various forms of printed materials touting their legitimacy. Always double check to make sure they practice what they preach. An internet search will quickly alert you to any discrepancies.
Get a Business Consultant for Your Maid Service Franchise
A good franchise company will provide you with a business consultant to help you develop your business strategy, and work on planning for the future of your investment. He or she will be available for problem solving sessions long before those problems arise.
A good consultant will talk marketing and development, providing you with a list of tips and techniques long before your business gets off the ground.
Do your research and make sure you don’t make some of the common mistakes business owners undergo when purchasing a maid service franchise.
By avoiding these mistakes, your cleaning service will be off the ground, up and running, and making money—the way a good, sound, and lucrative business is supposed to run.